UK Election 2024: Surprising Facts You Should Know

July 4, 2024

The UK is set for a major election today. This election could bring significant changes to the country's leadership . Polls suggest a new leadership might emerge victorious which will mark a shift in the political landscape.

How is the Winner Chosen?

In the UK there are 650 parliamentary seats. A party needs to win at least 326 seats to have a majority. The leader of the party that wins the majority becomes the prime minister. Voters in each area choose a local candidate and the candidate with the most votes wins the seat for that area.

If no party wins a majority it's called a hung parliament. In this case the current prime minister stays in power and tries to form a new government.

What is a Supermajority?

A supermajority means a party has a very large majority. Some people are worried this might let the winning party make big changes easily. In the UK there is no official term or special powers for a supermajority.

When Will the Results Be Announced?

Voting ends at 10 p.m. (2100 GMT) on July 4. Right after an exit poll is released. Counting starts right away and the first results come in a few hours. By early morning (usually between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m.) we should know the overall result.

When Will the New Prime Minister Start?

If the current government loses the prime minister will resign to the king on Friday. The king will ask the winner to form a government. The new prime minister will then speak to the public.

What Happens Next?

The new prime minister will pick new ministers. Parliament will return on July 9. MPs will choose the Speaker of the House of Commons. Each MP will swear an oath to the king. This takes a few days.

The State Opening of Parliament and the King's Speech will happen on July 17. This could change with a new government.

Who Can Vote and How?

Voters must be 18 or older on election day. They must be British, Irish or Commonwealth citizens. About 50 million people can vote. Polling stations open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (0600-2100 GMT). Voters can cast their votes in person, by mail or even by appointing someone else to vote on their behalf (proxy). This time the election introduces a new requirement for photo identification as well.

Conclusion

The UK election on July 4 is a significant event that could change the political landscape. With close to 50 million people eligible to vote and the outcome will shape the future direction of the country. As the results come in and the new leadership takes charge and the UK will embark on a new chapter in its political journey.